Courage Within: Mr. Rich Addresses the Graduates

Two significant historical events have served to bookend your short lives thus far. You entered into a world shortly after 9/11. Your normal has been increased security, death, destruction, and a nearly 20 year War on Terror. You are graduating in the most unique of circumstances. The world is facing a global pandemic. A situation not seen in over 100 years. How can you not be anxious? How can you not be stressed? How can you not be depressed? I stand here today to challenge your anxiety, your stress, and your depression!

Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Cast away all your anxiety because you are cared for. Embrace the strength that it takes to face adversity. Obstacles in your way are merely future successes not yet accomplished. Do not dwell on what could have been, embrace the opportunity of what will be.

Do not be anxious about your life. Do not worry about your next meal. Be mindful but do not dwell on the health of your body. Do not worry if you have the latest fashions. Life is more than food. Life is more than fashion. Look around you. The solutions to your problems are within your reach. Trust that there is a solution, and one will be found. Do you not know your value? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to days?

Find your light and your salvation. Whom then shall you fear? Find the stronghold of your life. Do not be afraid. You have the courage within you. You have the tools necessary. Let them shine as your light.  Congratulations Class of 2020!

To listen to Mr. Rich’s address to the seniors, please click HERE.